Lawyers for Fatal Work Accidents in Springfield, Missouri

Also Serving Clients in Joplin and Across Missouri

Nothing can truly compensate you for the loss of a loved one in an on-the-job accident. However, if you are the spouse or dependent of an employee who was fatally injured at work, you may be entitled to workers' compensation payments that could help you carry on financially in the wake of your loved one's death. There are two circumstances under which a spouse or dependent may receive compensation for such a fatal accident:

• His or her loved one was an employee and died in a work-related accident.
• His or her loved one was an employee and received permanent partial or permanent total disability before dying of unrelated causes.

If your family member was lost in a tragic on-the-job accident, you have enough to deal with without worrying where the next paycheck will come from. At The Law Firm of Webster & Carlton, we are experienced fatal work accidents attorneys in Missouri, committed to helping you recover payments you may be owed after the tragic work-related death of your loved one.

For your free initial consultation, call us toll free at (417) 545-3775, or use our contact form.

Stabilize Yourself After A Shock

When an employee dies in a work-related accident, his or her spouse and dependent children are entitled to:

• Weekly benefits at the rate of 66 2/3 percent of the family member's wage the year before the accident
• A maximum of $5,000 in funeral expenses

A spouse in such a wrongful death case is entitled to lifelong benefits unless he or she remarries. Dependent children are eligible for benefits until the age of 18. Benefits for dependents can be extended in some cases, for example if:

• The dependent has a disability.
• The dependent is in the military.
• The dependent is in college at the time of the death.

When an employee dies of unrelated causes after receiving disability benefits, his or her spouse and/or dependents are not entitled to lifelong benefits. Instead, they may receive a lump sum of the disability benefits to which the injured spouse had been entitled.

The Legal Process for Work Accident Cases

Navigating the legal landscape after a fatal work accident can be daunting. At Webster & Carlton, we know that knowledge is power, and understanding the steps involved in your case can help alleviate some stress. Below, we outline what you can expect during the legal proceedings:

1. Initial Consultation: Our experienced attorneys will meet with you to discuss the specifics of your case, providing you with personalized legal advice and setting realistic expectations.
2. Investigation: We will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering all necessary documentation, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a robust case.
3. Negotiation: Our team will negotiate with insurance companies and employers to ensure you receive a fair settlement that reflects your situation and losses.
4. Litigation: If a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation, we are prepared to take your case to court, fighting for your rights every step of the way.
5. Ongoing Support: Throughout the entire process, our firm prioritizes communication and support, ensuring that you are informed and at ease.

Understanding these stages can help ease your mind during a difficult time. We are committed to providing clarity and guidance, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—healing and moving forward. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the complexities of your case.

FAQ: Lawyers for Fatal Work Accidents in Springfield, Missouri

What benefits can I receive if my loved one died in a work-related accident?
If your loved one was fatally injured at work, you may be entitled to weekly benefits amounting to 66 2/3 percent of their wages from the year prior to the accident, along with a maximum of $5,000 for funeral expenses.

Who is eligible to receive compensation after a fatal work accident?
Compensation can be received by the spouse or dependents of an employee who died in a work-related accident or who had received permanent disability benefits before dying from unrelated causes.

What happens to the benefits if the spouse remarries?
A spouse is entitled to lifelong benefits from the workers' compensation claim unless they remarry, at which point benefits may cease.

Are dependent children eligible for benefits?
Yes, dependent children are eligible for benefits until the age of 18. In some cases, benefits can be extended if the dependent has a disability, is in the military, or is attending college at the time of the death.

What if my loved one received disability benefits before their death?
If your loved one died of unrelated causes after receiving disability benefits, the spouse and dependents may receive a lump sum of the disability benefits that were owed, but not lifelong benefits.

How do I begin the process of claiming benefits?
Start by contacting a knowledgeable attorney who specializes in fatal work accidents. They can guide you through the process, help you gather necessary documentation, and file your claim.

What documentation will I need for my claim?
You will likely need to provide documentation such as the deceased’s employment records, medical records, death certificate, and any evidence of income or benefits.

How can Webster & Carlton help me during this difficult time?
Our experienced attorneys are committed to guiding you through the complexities of claiming benefits after a fatal work accident. We can handle all aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on healing and remembrance.

Find Out Your Rights Today

Sorting through death benefits after a tragic work accident can be complicated and stressful. Let our knowledgeable, sympathetic fatal work accident lawyers do it for you. 

For your free initial consultation, call us toll free at (417) 545-3775, or use our contact form.